This year, Bidwells has partnered with the NLA to deliver three sessions - a panel discussion about the Oxford-Cambridge Arc and two private roundtable events about the Arc and biodiversity net gain.
Day 1, 11:15 | Encouraging urban biodiversity roundtable
The past year has stressed the importance of access to green spaces and nature for our mental health and wellbeing, yet these spaces also provide havens in the city for urban wildlife and insects. With the GLA introducing new guidance in regards to urban greening, how can we ensure that built environment professionals are equipped to encourage urban biodiversity within every project? The urgences of the climate crisis means this is more important than ever, so how can we guarantee biodiversity is a top priority within the ongoing pandemic response and recovery? At the same time, what needs to be done to ensure biodiversity forms part of the holistic sustainability strategy that addresses the complexity and urgency of the crisis we’re facing.
Day 2: 10:45 | Chaired by Mike Derbyshire, Head of Planning, Bidwells
The Oxford-Cambridge Arc is home to world leading universities and is at the heart of the UK’s booming life sciences and innovation sectors. This session will explore how the Arc is being delivered, the challenges of aligning a transport, environment and housing strategy cohesively across 26 local authorities while also meeting the needs of businesses and universities.
Panellists: Professor Sadie Morgan, dRMM Architects and The Quality of Life Foundation; Anna Strongman, Oxford University Development; Saba Tahzib, MHCLG; Lucy Wilkins, MHCLG; Annette Jezierska, The Future Fox
Visit the LREF website for more event information >
Day 2: 13:45 | Arc market forum, in association with Bidwells
The Arc Market Forum is public and private sector think tank on the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. It brings together key stakeholders from the property industry with the government ministries tasked with delivering the Arc Vision. Conducted under Chatham House Rules, the Arc Market forum discusses government policy and strategic direction of the Arc, while providing on the ground feedback leading investors and developers operating across the region.